THIS WEEK: 7 crucial factors for building your project team

LEADERSHIP

Creating a successful project team requires careful consideration. From our experience managing various tech builds, we’ve identified seven factors crucial to choosing the right team members.

1. Understanding your project type

Begin by defining your project’s scope, including all necessary tasks. Determine the specific roles required. For example, an e-commerce project demands someone with e-commerce project management experience. Assess the complexity of each role and identify individuals who can handle pressure well. Pinpoint the technical elements for development - interface, integration, or high loading.

2. Timing for the first release

Know your project’s timeline and align it with your team's capacity. For quick turnarounds, opt for senior staff who can work faster. For projects with a longer lead time, aim for a balanced mix of experience levels.

3. Selecting your tech lead

A strong tech lead is vital. They should predict risks, review structures critically, and maintain stable productivity. In tight deadlines, your tech lead should devise an interim plan to ensure significant progress by the first release, transitioning into a detailed development plan thereafter.

4. Considering your client

The client type - new or existing - affects team selection. For long-term clients, choose team members familiar with their preferences. For new clients, a senior team with diverse client experience can better anticipate needs. This familiarity and experience foster a smoother working relationship.

5. Balancing age diversity

A diverse age range within your team is crucial. A team with only one age group might approach challenges from a limited perspective. A mix of ages balances knowledge, experience, and youthful innovation, providing a well-rounded problem-solving approach.

6. Ensuring a balance in skill set

Experience is more than age. Some individuals bring a breadth of experience across roles, making them great multitaskers, while others are subject matter experts. Combine senior, mid, and junior developers to create a balanced skill set. Remember, too many senior staff can hinder progress; a mix is key.

7. Prioritising diversity

Diversity extends beyond age and experience to include gender. A team with both men and women offers varied perspectives and solutions. Gender equity ensures comprehensive coverage of all aspects of the project, leading to innovative outcomes.

Applying these parameters will enable you to build cohesive teams that clients appreciate. We hope these insights assist you in assembling your next tech project team.